East Islip fan, 8, doesn’t let injury stop homecoming parade fun
Connetquot Elementary School student Raymond Larocca, 8, rides in a wheelchair during the East Islip homecoming parade. (Sept. 21, 2013) Credit: Ursula Moore
A twisted ankle with a hairline fracture didn’t stop 8-year-old Raymond Larocca from negotiating the East Islip homecoming parade route.
Despite being in a wheelchair with a cast after getting hurt playing football, the Connetquot Elementary School student knew he wanted to participate in the parade to support his East Islip Red Giants teammates.
His mother Christine Larocca, 44, was thrilled to watch her son be a part of such a fun-filled event.
“He knew he wanted to be here,” she said. Raymond agreed, adding “Being with my team at the parade is the best.”
The East Islip homecoming parade featured a marching band, cheerleaders and homecoming king and queen Matthew Cowdell, 17, and Kinza Zia, 17.
As they rode in a Jeep through the parade, Cowdell and Zia waved to the crowd.
“I feel like a princess today. I was also chosen to be junior prom queen. I am very happy to be here,” said Zia.
The parade route ran along Carleton Avenue and Roslyn Street, ending at the East Islip High School parking lot.
East Islip High principal William Brennen was most thankful for the nice weather.
“I am very happy that Mother Nature is cooperating,” he said. “This parade is the kickoff to the football game. This parade gets everyone’s excitement going.
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